Should I feel guilty about taking time off work for radiation treatment?

Taking time off work for radiation treatment is completely understandable and nothing to feel guilty about - prioritizing health and recovery is essential during cancer treatment. Every person's experience with radiation is different, and what works for others may not be the right approach for your specific situation and needs.

I worked through radiation treatment but my job and supervisors were generous. Was able to take time off and they did not expect my usual production level. I did not get the fatigue some people experience which helped

My job is pretty demanding as I manage a team of Directors and live in Jersey w offices in Manhattan and Long Island. Although my job is supportive and will flex some hours and allow remote work I just feel like I won't know how I will feel on any given day and will have to constantly move things/meetings around.. worked through the two Lumpectomy w a few suck days and Recon....just feel I need this time but feeling so guilty about taking it!!! Thank you both for commenting and sharing. And supporting!!!

If it won’t endanger your livelihood, take it off. Don’t feel guilty about asking for what you need. It does sound like your job might be tough to work through. You could also try working the first week or so of radiation and see how you feel, giving your company a heads up first.

I was so lucky I had radiation then straight in the car and off to work 20 times . My daughter with TNBC also straight to work It helps not to dwell and have a purpose I wish this for you all

Don’t feel guilty everyone has there our way of fighting cancer I had 11 rounds of radiation and did not go to work It’s your journey

Don't feel guilty for taking care of yourself. Last year I underwent radiation, 5 days a week for 5 weeks. My direct supervisor was very, very supportive. I scheduled my treatment on late afternoons on Friday and then had the weekend and remote work the Monday after that weekend to recover. Self care and good health are priorities.

You have every right, both legal and moral to take the time you need to recover from treatment. FMLA has an intermittent leave option where you take a few days off at a time. Please ask your doctor and your company's Human Resources about your leave options. Using FMLA protects your job.

I went to work while going twice a day for radiation. My supervisor was very supportive and didn’t have a problem with the limited number of hours I worked during that week. The important thing is to take care of yourself and and, if able, take the time off do so. We are all in very different and difficult situations and only you know what is best for you.

I worked thru radiation, once in 2018 every day for 5 weeks and last year for 3 weeks. I did ok until near the end when the fatigue would set in. I have very supportive bosses and just took a little time off near the ends of the treatments, and now I work from home which helps a lot.

Never feel guilty about taking care of yourself it's very important